Management of pests and diseases of castor (Ricinus communis L.) in India: current status and future perspective

Abstract

Castor (Ricinus communis L.) cultivation is generally cost-effective and profitable for small and marginal farmers in India. However, crop productivity is affected by the damage from pests and plant pathogens. From seedling till capsule harvesting, leaf sap-sucking insects and mites, defoliators, capsule feeding insects; bacterial and fungal diseases and root-knot nematodes attack the crop at various stages of growth and deteriorate plant health. Currently, synthetic pesticides are being applied extensively. Considering side effects of chemicals, other control measures are considered in this review. Findings of greenhouse and the field trials are discussed, and the efficient, economic and eco-friendly management has been elaborated.